Crotonese, a pure sheep's milk cheese made in four pound wheels comes to us from Calabria, in southern Italy. It is produced between the months of January and June when sheep's milk is the best and most abundant. Crotonese has that famous pecorino flavor and is both sweet and salty. Like most ewe's milk varieties, its surface is a bit oily due to the natural oils in the milk. Formed in woven molds, the rind takes on a ribbed pattern that makes a nice presentation. Excellent as a snacking cheese, Crotonese is an ideal partner for Brunello wine.